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Knowing God, Showing God, Sharing God |
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CHURCH - Today .The Church has a grade ll* listing.
About half of the Victorian pews are still in place although the PCC have agreed that they need to be replaced by chairs and the raised floor on which they stand lowered, to allow for versatility in usage. The DAC and other interested bodies have opposed these proposals which are at present on hold. From the main West door a newer set of internal glass panelled doors has been added allowing vision but preventing heat loss. In the South/West corner the space provides a coffee area where the congregation enjoy fellowship after the service.
Various members of the congregation have made banners to give colour to the church and glory to God. The Church has an effective heating system that blows hot air around the building and a efficient PA system with loop for the hard of hearing. In 1990 a dais was erected that extends from the chancel into the nave, which gives an open area for many activities such as drama and dance. The building is generally in sound repair, although some areas of the Bath stone on the exterior are eroding. In 1991 cracks were found on the tower turrets; action was taken to strap and make safe. Quinquennial inspection priorities have been carried out.
The surrounding churchyard was closed to burials in 1935 and consists mostly of trees, bushes and grass which the local council maintains. Floodlighting at night lights the South side of the church from both the western and eastern directions, this was sponsored jointly by a Millennium grant and funds from our church.
CHURCH HALL Across the car park from the church stands the hall which was built in 1956. It is a great asset and has been modernised over the years to bring it up to Health and Safety standards. It is in reasonable condition and many working parties have focused their attention on it. At present we are looking at complying with the disability laws and making access easier. The hall is designed on two levels, having its own stage and kitchen and toilets upstairs and two rooms downstairs. The God Squad (Sunday school) use the main hall on a Sunday Morning and at other times during the week it is let out to various organisations. ET Youth Club uses the facility on Saturday nights and West Country Theatre Company rent one of the basement rooms from which they base their work.
Exterior of the Church Hall
The surrounding car park has been enlarged this year and provides approximately 30 spaces.
RECTORY
The Rectory is sited in within the parish, and in walking distance to the church, or local primary schools. It is a well looked after, large 4 bedroom house with a good-sized study, lounge, dining room, kitchen, downstairs toilet and upstairs bathroom and toilet. In the front of the property there is a driveway and parking for 6/8 cars.
Rear view and garden There is a detached garage and shed at the side of the house and a good sized secluded garden mostly turfed, surrounded by shrubs and bushes. The garden area is flat and secure for young children to play in. The Rectory has in the past been used for many social occasions and meetings, and although a family home it has great potential for entertaining.
Kitchen and lounge
The property was acquired by the Diocese in 1987 has been continually upgraded since then, providing an excellent family home, comfortable and full of character. The Rectory is within a ten minute walk away from Upton St. James’ Primary School or Ellacombe Primary. aspects of church life. The PCC are committed and prayerful in their entire decision making and very much wait on the Lord for guidance.
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OUR CHURCH TODAY |
